what kind of lawyer do you need to change my name

Do you need a lawyer to change your name?

The very first step in the process of changing your name starts by going to your local county clerks office. There you will find out if you need a lawyer for the process but typically your county clerks office will give you information pertaining to self-help so you can do the name change on your own without hiring a lawyer.

How to legally change your name without a lawyer?

You must include the following information in the Petition for Change of Name:

• Your current name
• Your county of residence
• A description including height, weight, hair and eye color, race, sex, and place and date of birth
• Place of residence (s) for the past five years
• Reason for request
• A legal description of all real estate in Iowa owned or in which you have any legal interest
• The new name you are requesting to take

How do you change a legal name?

“The next step is to file the notice and other documents needed for the name change with appropriate department; in some states this is a Clerk of Court, in other states, it requires an actual court file to be opened and a Judge to sign the name change order.”

What kind of lawyer handles name changes?

Consulting with a lawyer regarding any significant legal matter such as a name change is always advisable. Because of the complexity of some name change documents, it may be advantageous to consult an attorney to explain the full effects of the name change. A lawyer can also help you through the legal process of changing a name.

How difficult is it to change your name?

The process of changing your name is not difficult however it requires a tedious effort to do so. There are many steps, which can be slow at times, that are required to successfully change your name. It's easy to change your name in social settings, all you have to do is introduce yourself with your desired name.

Where do you go to change your name?

You can change your name by following your state's name change guidelines. While each state's policy varies, the first step is to file a formal petition for a name change with your local court. You can ask the court if it supplies the forms. Otherwise, you may need to check online or consult with an attorney.

How can you change your name for free?

The Social Security Administration has its own form which you can get for free. The good folks at SSI will also let the IRS know about the name change, so you're good to go.

How much does it cost for someone to change their name?

Name changes cost anywhere from under $100 to more than $500, depending on your state. In many states, fees vary in each county, so check with your local probate, family, or district court clerk. Many states still have fees well under $100.

How long does it take to change your name?

Changing your name cannot be done overnight, it requires systematic planning and involves a host of complicated pre and post-gazette publication compliance. While it might take approximately 4-8 weeks to get your name changed published in the gazette.

Do you need a reason to change your name?

You don't need to have any kind of valid reason to change your name, so long as it is not for any fraudulent purpose, such as avoiding paying a debt or fulfilling an obligation — you are free to change your name at any time.

What do I put for reason for name change?

Here we have enlisted some of the top reasons for the name change.Fancy for a new name. ... Changing name after divorce: ... Couples who are combining surnames. ... Religious reasons: ... Avoid confusions: ... Gender change: ... Changing name after marriage: ... Astrological or numerological changes:More items...

How much does it cost to change name on birth certificate?

Costs for this service A statutory correction application fee of £75 or £90 will be charged for the consideration of a correction to a registration. If you require any replacement certificates that show the correction note, these will cost an additional £11 each.

Can I legally change my last name?

Changing a surname. As with your first name, there is nothing in the law stopping you from changing your surname at any time, so long as you don't have any fraudulent (or other criminal) intent. You can assume any surname you please in addition to, or substitution for, your existing surname.

How do I change my name back to my maiden name?

The good news is that if you are simply reverting to your maiden name after a divorce, then many institutions will accept a copy of your birth certificate, marriage certificate, decree absolute and a signed declaration that you are reverting your maiden name for all purposes.

How much is it to hyphenate your last name?

Depending on where you live, the cost can range from $150 to a few hundred dollars — typically not something that requires digging deep into your savings or putting a lot of debt onto a credit card. You may have to pay: Court filing fees.

How do I go back to my maiden name without divorce?

If you separate, you can revert back to using your maiden name (or a completely different name) immediately by using a deed poll. It is a good way of announcing that you are no longer together and that you are an independent person again without waiting for a divorce to complete.

How Do I Legally Change My Name After Getting Married?

A newlywed wanting to change their name needs the original marriage license with the raised seal. This has the individual’s new last name on it. After receiving the marriage certificate, the newlywed must:

How Do I Change My Name Back to My Maiden Name?

In many states, all a spouse must do is ask the judge over the divorce case to change the last name back to the maiden name. If a divorce decree does not show a name change, an individual can restore their maiden name with some proof of it on an old document like a passport. If that is not an option, just consistently start using the maiden name.

What If I Just Want to Change My Name Legally?

An individually wanting to change their name legally must petition the court for the permission to do so. The exact court they must file the petition at depends on the state where they reside.

Should I Contact a Lawyer about a Legal Name Change?

Yes, it is highly recommended that you contact a family lawyer regarding a name change. They will help you follow the correct procedure and file all of the correct paperwork.

2 attorney answers

This is a fairly straightforward action depending on the circumstances. Any solo or general practitioner (lawyer) should be able to assist in drafting the appropriate legal documents.

John Roache Cook IV

If this is connected to a divorce, then it can be done during the proceedings. Otherwise it's an application through the La. Vital Records and you have to file a motion with the court in your jurisdiction. I would suggest a family law lawyer or a general practioner.

Do you have to appear before a judge?

Some states do not require an appearance before the judge and will mail you the signed order. In some states, they will allow you to have a brief court appearance the same day your turn in your forms if the schedule allows. Some states do not require an appearance before the judge and will mail you the signed order.

Can you change your name if you have been convicted of a felony?

Some states will not allow a name change if you have been convicted of a felony. Some states require a fingerprint criminal history record. You must read and follow the steps outlined by your states law.

Can I change my last name in Cincinnati?

How to Change Last Name at Cincinnati Clerk of Courts. A legal name change does not require an attorney and can be completed by yourself. You must follow some guidelines, such as, you cannot change your name to a famous person, you cannot change your name to avoid legal issues and you cannot change your name to one that is demeaning ...

How to change your name without a lawyer?

There you will find out if you need a lawyer for the process but typically your county clerks office will give you information pertaining to self-help so you can do the name change on your own without hiring a lawyer. Each state has their own procedure so it’s important to go to your local county clerks office to gather this information.

How much does it cost to change your name?

As it varies by state, changing you name typically costs under a few hundred dollars. It’s after you change your name that the fees add up with things like a new drivers license, social security card and passport. All of which will cost money to replace. Again, states charge different fees to replace IDs and documents.

What is the most important document to change your name on?

If the judge approves your application, a decree will be signed which is the most important document because it allows you to change your name on all the most sensitive documents including your passport, driver’s license, birth certificate and social security card.

How to change name on passport?

To change your name on a US Passport an applicant will need to do the following: If applying less than 1 year after your previous passport was issued you will need to gather the following: Complete Form DS-5504 either Online or in Adobe PDF. Your Current Passport.

Why do you need to make copies of petitions?

Knowledge Tip: The reason for making copies is because you will need to provide a copy of the petition for a change of name form when publishing your new name in the newspaper. Look at Step 4 for more information.

Why do people change their last name?

People change their name for a variety of reasons. By far the most common reason people change their name (last name) is due to marriage or divorce. Other reasons include: Entertainment Stage Name. Gender Change. State Witness Program. Troubled History. Dislike of Birth Name. Restoring a Former Name.

Is it hard to change your name in Family Fallout?

Family Fallout. The process of changing your name is not difficult however it requires a tedious effort to do so. There are many steps, which can be slow at times, that are required to successfully change your name.

3 attorney answers

I agree with the other two responses. A Petition for Name Change and an Order for Name Change need to be filed. Depending on what county you file it in a court appearance may not be necessary.

Michael Kerr Walker

I agree with the advice given by Mr. Standbrook. As a general rule name changes are a pretty straightforward matter so long as it is not being done for some fraudulent purpose.

Lloyd A. Pont

Although a lawyer can ensure you negotiate your way through an often complicated legal process, a request to change one's name should not be too difficult. Both the probate and chancery courts in Davidson County handle name changes.

What to do if your name is not allowed to be changed?

If the court does not allow modification, you will likely need to file a petition for a court-ordered name change. You should always keep proof of your original name (birth certificate) in case you run into any difficulties with using it again. 3. Court-Ordered Name Change.

How to change your name after divorce?

The first step of a divorce name change is to go through divorce proceedings in your state. After the state says your divorce is final, you will be able to obtain a divorce decree which serves as your legal name change document.

What is a court order name change?

3. Court-Ordered Name Change. A legal name change for reasons other than marriage or divorce is a court-ordered name change and is usually because of personal preference or gender change. It’s a common misconception but not all states require you to file your name change in court if it falls under the state’s usage method.

Why do people change their names?

People change their legal name for many reasons. For the most part name changes happen due to marriage, divorce, gender change or court order. Marriage and divorce are the most common reasons for legal name changes. You need a marriage certificate if you’d like to take your spouse’s name after your wedding. To get your maiden name back ...

How to get your maiden name back after divorce?

To get your maiden name back after divorce all you need is a divorce decree. And most states allow you to obtain a court-ordered name change if you don’t like your current name. Each state has its own laws and restrictions but the general process of legally changing your name is pretty straightforward. 1. Marriage Name Change.

How to update your name after marriage?

The first place to update your name after your marriage is with the Social Security Administration (SSA). You do this by submitting Form SS-5, your marriage certificate, and proof of your identity and citizenship.

What is asking for a name?

Asking for a name which has the intention of being misleading, typically done by taking the name of someone famous. Choosing a confusing name which may include numbers or symbols. Seeking a name that may be offensive to others (racial slurs, fighting words, viewed as threatening, etc.)

How to choose a lawyer?

Choosing a lawyer is a crucial step in the resolution of your legal matter. Whether you are a plaintiff or a defendant, or merely a party looking for counsel, the right lawyer is key. But like all relationships, the lawyer-client relationship does not always last forever. Common problems that clients report with attorneys include: 1 Poor results. The lawyer is simply not achieving the results you were led to believe he or she could achieve. 2 Bad communication. The lawyer is not communicating about crucial legal matters and decisions, leaving you uncertain of where your matter is or what's expected of you. 3 Lack of professionalism. The lawyer perhaps arrives late to meetings, doesn't remember key facts about the case, cannot find documents already provided by the client, and even forgets to submit documents by key deadlines.

Why is it important to choose a lawyer?

Choosing a lawyer is a crucial step in the resolution of your legal matter. Whether you are a plaintiff or a defendant, or merely a party looking for counsel, the right lawyer is key. But like all relationships, the lawyer-client relationship does not always last forever.

Why do judges get annoyed with lawyer shopping?

Judges in particular might become annoyed at a client who is "lawyer shopping," because this delays the matter and clogs their dockets. It also suggests that you are a difficult client, or that your claims are not meritorious.

What are the bad things about lawyers?

Bad communication. The lawyer is not communicating about crucial legal matters and decisions, leaving you uncertain of where your matter is or what's expected of you. Lack of professionalism.

Does a lawyer-client relationship last forever?

. . . like all relationships, the lawyer-client relationship does not always last forever.

Is a lawyer responsible for your own legal affairs?

One important thing to realize is that, even though you hired the services of a professional, you are still ultimately responsible for your own legal affairs, and for what your lawyer says and does on your behalf. If you believe there is a problem with the service you are receiving, it may be vital to your interests to do something about it.

Why do you have to change your name on a deed?

If you have an interest in a piece of real estate, your ownership is reflected by your name on the deed. There are all sorts of reasons, short of a sale or purchase, requiring a name change on a real estate deed. Life happens, and that means marriage, divorce, death or just the changing of a legal name. It’s important that your real estate deeds reflect your current legal name and having your legal name on the deed makes the process much smoother if you want to put your property on the market or take out another mortgage.

Why is it important to have your name on your deed?

It’s important that your real estate deeds reflect your current legal name and having your legal name on the deed makes the process much smoother if you want to put your property on the market or take out another mortgage.

What is the name of the person who is transferring the property?

The quitclaim deed form must include the property’s legal description, the county in which the property is located, the date of the transfer, and the name of the person transferring the property, known as the grantor , and the name of the person receiving the property, or grantee.

Do you need a witness to quitclaim deeds?

While all quitclaim deeds require notarization, in some states a witness to the transfer is required. Keep in mind that laws regarding quitclaim deeds vary by state, so find out exactly what your state requires in terms of notarization, recording and other details.

Do you have to change the deed if your spouse died?

If your spouse has died and the property was owned jointly with right of survivorship, you don’t have to change the deed to reflect that the property is now owned by just one person. If you decide to sell your home or take out a mortgage, it’s just a matter of explaining in the new deed or new mortgage that your spouse has died.

Do you have to update a quit claim deed?

If you are transferring the property to yourself under your new name, all you have to do is update the deed from your former name to your current one. You’ll find the legal description of the property on your current deed. While all quitclaim deeds require notarization, in some states a witness to the transfer is required.

Can you add another owner to a quit claim deed?

While quitclaim deeds aren’t recommended between parties who don’t know each other – since no warranties are included – but they are suitable for divorcing couples who agree that one spouse receives the property; adding another owner to the deed, and legal name changes, whether through marriage or the court. The quitclaim deed form must include the ...